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The Support Available to Foster Parents

There is a lot of support available to foster and kinship foster families in Vermont.

Financial Support

You'll get a monthly stipend to help with the cost of raising a child. Reimbursement rates vary depending on your training and experience and the age and special needs of the children in your care.

You can be reimbursed for expenses related to carrying out the case plan (e.g., making approved phone calls, attending training, and transporting the child to family visits).

An initial clothing voucher of up to $100 may be issued if a child comes into care without adequate clothing and efforts to recover the child’s clothing are unsuccessful.

If the child damages your home, you may be eligible to be reimbursed for the costs of repairing the damage.

Children in care are eligible for free school lunches.

Children under the age of five are also eligible to receive services and food from the Women, Infant, and Children (WIC) program administered by the Vermont Department of Health.

If a child needs special items or has unusual expenses, there may be funds available to help.

If a young person turns 18 while in your care, he or she may be eligible for support to stay in your home until the age of 22.

Childcare

Subsidized childcare is available if you have an accepted need for childcare (e.g., you work outside the home or attend school) or it’s authorized based on the child’s special needs. Protective services childcare may be authorized if a child’s situation calls for it.

Medical Benefits

Children in custody are covered for medical expenses either through their parents’ insurance or Medicaid.

Other DCF Support

In addition to the training you are required to take, you can also take advantage of training opportunities offered by DCF throughout the year.

Family Services district staff, including resource coordinators, social workers, supervisors, and district directors, are available to provide ongoing support.

After hours, on weekends, and on state holidays, you can call 1-800-649-5285 for support.

DCF works with several agencies that provide a limited amount of additional support to foster parents, including case management and consultation.

DCF supports the use of respite as a positive break for caregivers. It gives foster parents time to relax and refresh their energy.